Swimming with turtles in Barbados!
We’re often asked ‘Can I swim with dolphins in Barbados’? While the answer to that question is ‘no’, Barbados does offer a unique experience of swimming with marine life… swimming with the sea turtles!
This has become a popular activity in recent years and most of the local catamaran cruises offer a tour that includes swimming with the turtles. The most popular spot is along the west coast just offshore from the Lone Star Restaurant. Despite its popularity the area rarely seems crowded and you’re sure to enjoy the intimacy of interacting with these amazing creatures. Here you can snorkel and dive with the turtles and even feed them if you wish!
Sometimes you’re swimming with the turtles and don’t even know it! It’s not all that unusual to be swimming or relaxing in the waters around Barbados and see a distinctive head pop out of the water nearby for a breath of air!
If you prefer to stay on dry land, stop by the Oistins Fish Market just before sunset, collect some fish scraps from the vendors and head out onto the pier to feed the appreciative turtles!
Barbados sea turtle and fish!
Barbados is a nesting ground for several species of turtles including the Hawksbill, Leatherback and Green Turtles. If you are visiting between February and July, you may see leatherback turtles nesting; between May and October is the hawksbill nesting season. Barbados hotels are very accommodating and adjust their beach lighting so as not to confuse nesting females and hatchlings who are drawn to bright light.
The Barbados Sea Turtle Project works diligently to ensure that these wonderful animals will be around for a long, long time.
Read more about swimming with turtles in Barbados and find a local catamaran tour
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